Microbubble-generating and dispensing devices and methods
US5117882A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 15, 1988 |
| Grant date | Jun 2, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 15, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T70/10
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods and devices for generating gas bubbles including a microbubble generating cell having a microporous mat permeable to gas appied thereagainst under pressure which has a ultrasonic energy generator such as a piezoelectric transducer in wave energy communication therewith for promoting flow and impeding fouling thereof. Such mat is comprised of compressed corrosion-resistant metal fibers of a diameter of between 2 and 80 microns, has a density of less than 70% of the density of the fibers and an average pore diameter of between 5 and 100 microns. Such methods and devices are associated with a vessel and/or a foil for a vessel for generating and dispensing microbubbles along the hull surfaces to reduce friction and turbulence on the wetted surface. The foil is positioned forward of vessel bowpeak with its trailing edge confronting same and has a microbubble dispenser for dispensing microbubbles in the path of the hull of the vessel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.